By Our Reporter 

Amuria District — Local Council One (LC1) chairpersons in Amuria District are urging the government to improve their welfare by increasing their monthly allowance and providing reliable transport to support their field activities.

Currently receiving UGX 10,000 as a monthly allowance, the LC1 chairpersons are calling for an increment to at least UGX 120,000, citing the heavy workload and their significant role in the implementation and monitoring of government programs.

Peter Omoding, the LC1 chairperson of Atakia village, voiced his concern, noting that despite their sacrifices and commitment to mobilizing communities and supporting government initiatives, their efforts are underappreciated. 

“We are the face of government in the villages, but we are being overlooked. We need better facilitation to perform effectively,” Omoding said.

Omoding also highlighted the dire state of the bicycles that were initially provided by the government, stating that many have broken down and are no longer usable. He stressed the need for motorcycles, which would enhance their mobility and efficiency in reaching remote communities.

John Obalang, LC1 chairperson of Odongai village, echoed similar sentiments, noting that improved facilitation through increased allowances and motorcycles would significantly enhance their performance.

“With a proper monthly allowance and a motorcycle, we can do more. Mobilization would be easier, and we’d be more effective in following up on government programs,” Obalang said.

Simon Eroju, LC1 chairperson of Alamlam village, also emphasized that the lack of reliable transport greatly hampers their operations.

“It becomes difficult to supervise or monitor activities when you can’t even reach the community members. We are committed, but we need the tools to work,” Eroju noted.

The LC1s now await a response from the central government, hoping their concerns will be priori to strengthen service delivery and grassroots governance across Amuria.